Do I really need ATEX Certified weighing scales?

What to look out for when purchasing ATEX industrial weighing scales

Any manufacturer or supplier of equipment (and that includes importers) must ensure that their products meet essential health and safety requirements and undergo appropriate conformity procedures, before they can be used in a workplace that has been classified as potentially explosive. 

This usually involves testing and certification by a third-party, but manufacturers can also 'self-certify' equipment intended to be used in less hazardous explosive atmospheres.  It’s important to check what classification equipment needs to conform to, before making a final decision about which weighing scales are right for your environment.

Once certified, equipment is marked with the 'EX' symbol and can be promoted as ATEX Certified weighing scales by the manufacturer or distributor.

ATEX Certified weighing scales have been checked and confirmed as fit for purpose, for use in explosive atmospheres 

ATEX Certification confirms that your weighing equipment is fit for its intended purpose, and that adequate information is supplied with it to ensure that it can be used safely and consistently in a potentially explosive environment, as classified.  

In short, it gives you surety that the weight readings you take will be accurate, and that you can use equipment safely and efficiently, if appropriately maintained in line with the manufacturer’s instructions.

What if I don’t use ATEX Certified scales?
Your business could be at serious risk in terms of endangering life, and/or creating unnecessary ignition risks by use of equipment that is not fit for purpose.  We strongly recommend, therefore, that you use ATEX Certified weighing scales that are appropriate for use in the appropriate hazardous zone.  

If in doubt, ask your manufacturer for the certificate of conformity so you can check the extent of cover.